Pygeum africanum is a large evergreen tree found in central and southern Africa. The extracts from the pygeum bark contain several compounds thought to be helpful in prostate health.

Pygeum extracts have been used for more than 40 years in France, Germany, and Austria for patients suffering with prostate enlargement. Benign prostatic hyperplasia,a nonmalignant enlargement of the prostate that occurs in most men over 60, can lead to urinary frequency and nocturia. Frequent interruption of sleep leads to daytime tiredness.

The pharmacologic use of Pygeum africanum for the treatment of BPH has been growing steadily and a well-known herb used for this purpose is saw palmetto. Pygeum africanum extract of the African prune tree, pygeum africanum, is one of several herbal agents used by many men who have BPH.

Phytosterols are found in most plants in low concentrations. The foods with higher concentrations include nuts and legumes, oranges, bananas, beetroot and brussel sprouts. Those with exceptionally higher concentrates include rice bran, corn, wheat germ and flax seed. If your cholesterol levels are within the normal range, and you're in good health, regular intake of these foods should be a sufficient amount of phytosterols to aid in maintaining good health. Should you have high cholesterol or an enlarged prostate, or suffer from joint inflammation, you may wish to consult your physician about taking a phytosterol supplement.

Beta sitosterol, a specific phytosterol compound, has been shown to reduce symptoms brought on by an enlarged prostate. This same compound is thought to reduce joint inflammation by regulating the synthesis of cytokines. There are also studies that indicate phytosterols may inhibit the growth of cancer cells.